Celtic FC- The Walfrid Sanctuary

On this day in 1840, a man was born in Sligo who went on to leave a permanent monument to helping the poor. Regular reader and contributor Monti suggests another fitting memorial, one that perhaps is needed more now than ever before..

We Celtic supporters are all aware of the reasons why Celtic were formed, from poverty, homelessness, penniless and destitution, Celtic were created  to help the poorest people in their community, to feed people, to clothe people and to give their community and people hope in a hopeless situation.

 Something to focus on, and somewhere to turn to in times of need.

Thousands of people living in squalor and impoverished environment and living conditions were now, due to Celtic being born, starting to get the help they desperately needed to have some kind of structure to their lives.

But the problem hasn’t gone away.

Poverty and homelessness are still rife in 2016, we still see people living and begging on our streets in Glasgow and most towns and cities across Scotland.

Foodbanks exist, charity shops dominate high streets, and austerity has become a domestic issue.

I would like to see Celtic F.C. build a permanent building for the people of Glasgow’s poorest and homeless citizens,

I would like to see them oversee recrutiment  and training so that those involved are the right kind of people to help those who have fallen on hard times.

I would like to see the club fund it and give these unfortunate souls some dignity back, get them safe and off the streets, and give them back the hope that they have lost in society.

I would like to see them given a chance to start all over again, and make the most of any opportu nity that comes their way.

 Poverty and homelessness should not be a reality in Scotland in 2016.

There are many reasons for people being homeless and the ages vary from the very young to the old and vulnerable. Very often it is not their fault.

Unfortunately we have seen the weakest and most vulnerable on our streets being exploited in shelters such as the hideous ” bellgrove shelter ” in  the Gallowgate, landlords receiving lots of money and their residents living in disgusting conditions.

Taking advantage of those less fortunate, those who have little choice, is one of the 21st century’s most despicable crimes, yet it’srampant in the poorest sections of society.

I don’t know if it can be done or if the Celtic board would consider such a move but it would be a big winner with the fans I believe, if Celtic were to construct a building, in the club’s name, in Walfrid’s name, that got the homeless off the streets, in the process making people safe and giving them a foundation, a start to getting their lives back together again.

Celtic , again, would be putting something into the community, something which is worthwhile.

The Celtic story of being formed for people who had nothing and giving them hope, is the story I fell in love with, it is the reason I support the club, reading about our origins as a kid ignited a flame in my heart, it has never burned stronger. 

A building rising high into the East end sky, that has taken people from the streets and fed them, and made them safe would be remarkable, befitting a remarkable man and club.

Hail Hail!